Welcome to Vonti Talks with Filmmakers Podcast, where we take you behind the scenes and beyond the silver screen into the captivating world of entertainment. Immerse yourself in exclusive interviews with industry heavyweights, from Oscar and Emmy winners to A-list celebrities, Netflix Casting Agents, Executive Producers, Directors of Photography, Production Designers, and more. Join our host, Vonti McRae, as she navigates through the dynamic landscape of TV, film, and documentaries, unraveli ...
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Vonti McRae Podcasts

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Season 2, Episode 10 pt. 2 Final Discussion with Elite Cinematographer: Kate Phelan
38:44
38:44
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38:44Vonti Talks with Filmmakers Podcast wraps up our discussion with Acclaimed Cinematographer Kate Phelan. Her work has lit up screens at Sundance, Berlin, and SXSW. With over a decade of experience in the electric department before stepping behind the camera, Kate brings unique technical mastery to her craft, having shot for every major network from …
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Season 2, Episode 9 pt. 1 Inside the Mind of Elite Cinematographer: Kate Phelan
31:31
31:31
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31:31Thank you for joining us for a masterclass in visual storytelling with Kate Phelan, an acclaimed cinematographer whose work has lit up screens at Sundance, Berlin, and SXSW. With over a decade of experience in the electric department before stepping behind the camera, Kate brings unique technical mastery to her craft, having shot for every major ne…
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Season 2, Episode 8 pt. 2 James M. Russell is building Africa's Largest Film Studio
33:06
33:06
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33:06Welcome Back! Here is Part 2 of our discussion with Media Innovator James M. Russell who is laser focused on upgrading African TV and Film. He is a seasoned film and TV producer, writer, and entrepreneur, driving innovative projects that captivate global audiences. As the Managing Partner of Desert Dunes Film Studios in Namibia, James is building A…
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Season 2, Episode 7 pt. 1 James M. Russell is building Africa's Largest Film Studio
28:21
28:21
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28:21We welcome to the show Innovator James M. Russell who is laser focused on upgrading African TV and Film. He is a seasoned film and TV producer, writer, and entrepreneur, driving innovative projects that captivate global audiences. As the Managing Partner of Desert Dunes Film Studios in Namibia, James is building Africa’s largest motion picture stud…
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Season 2, Episode 6 pt. 2 Film Director and Screenwriter Dominic Goodie
40:22
40:22
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40:22Welcome Back! Here is our final chapter with Army Veteran Dominic who is an accomplished American Film Director and Screenwriter. He adeptly navigates various genres, from heart-pounding action to spine-chilling horror. With an impressive repertoire of short films, Dominic's latest project "Witnessed," showcases his talent as a writer, producer, ed…
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Season 2, Ep. 5 Insights with Film Director and Screenwriter Dominic Goodie out of Atlanta, GA
37:46
37:46
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37:46Our next episode highlights Army Veteran Dominic who is an accomplished American Film Director and Screenwriter. He adeptly navigates various genres, from heart-pounding action to spine-chilling horror. With an impressive repertoire of short films, Dominic's latest project "Witnessed," showcases his talent as a writer, producer, editor, and directo…
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Season 2 Ep. 4 Oscar-winning producer Steve Longi of Hacksaw Ridge part 2
36:58
36:58
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36:58Part 2 of our Discussion with Steve Longi begins now! Step behind the scenes of #Hollywood with Vonti Talks w/ Filmmakers! Vonti McRae sits down with Oscar-winning producer Steve Longi, the mastermind behind Hacksaw Ridge. With over 20 years in the industry, Longi has collaborated with legendary stars like Robert Downey Jr., Sigourney Weaver, and R…
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Season 2 Ep. 3 Interview with Oscar-winning producer Steve Longi of Hacksaw Ridge
36:58
36:58
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36:58Step behind the scenes of #Hollywood with Vonti Talks w/ Filmmakers! Vonti McRae sits down with Oscar-winning producer Steve Longi, the mastermind behind Hacksaw Ridge. With over 20 years in the industry, Longi has collaborated with legendary stars like Robert Downey Jr., Sigourney Weaver, and Ray Liotta. From producing the Emmy-nominated Prayers f…
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SSN 2 Ep. 2 From Brooklyn to the Emmys - Mike Spiller discusses Comedic TV Magic of his shows!
35:00
35:00
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35:00Episode 2 continues our sit down with acclaimed TV Director Mike Spiller - a fellow Brooklynite who has won an #Emmy and DGA award for his work on hit shows like Modern Family, Scrubs, New Girl and The Mindy Project. We delve into more of a Hollywood geniuses’ career. Mike is such a down to earth humble man who is passionate about filmmaking. Don't…
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SSN 2 Ep. 1 From Brooklyn to the Emmys - Mike Spiller discusses Comedic Magic of The Mindy Project and more!
35:19
35:19
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35:19We are back! Season 2 is finally here. Join us as we sit down with acclaimed TV director Mike Spiller - a fellow Brooklynite who has won an Emmy and DGA award for his work on hit shows like Modern Family, Scrubs, New Girl and The Mindy Project. In this episode, Mike takes us into his world of bringing some of television's most beloved comedies to l…
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Ep. 26 Key Grip Patrick Heffernan discusses working with the Rock and Sean Penn. (pt. 2)
44:50
44:50
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44:50What does Sean Penn, the mountains and snow mobiles have to do with making films? Patrick R. Heffernan recalls all the behinds the scenes adventures. He's worked in the camera and electrical department of films like Hotel Artemis, Faster and Blues Clues. But one of his coolest moments happened when rigging up equipment for Into the Wild. Also that …
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Ep. 25 Dive into the World of Blockbuster Action with Key Grip Patrick Heffernan! (pt. 1)
29:41
29:41
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29:41Welcome back to another episode of "Vonti Talks with Filmmakers". We mentor you from afar on everything Indie and Hollywood driven. Explore # 25 with Patrick R. Heffernan, known for his work in the Camera and Electrical department of films like Hotel Artemis, Faster starring the Rock and Into the Wild Directed by Sean Penn. He's also been part of p…
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Ep. 24 TV and Film Production Supervisor and Accountant Jenny Lovin loves Comedy shows (pt. 2)
33:40
33:40
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33:40We discuss some of Jenny Lovin favorite projects to work on and the genre that brings her the most joy. From Hollywood to Indie content she is able to do it all! Dive into the heart of Television magic with TV Production Supervisor and Accountant extraordinaire Jenny Lovin! From the birth of a concept to the dazzling on-screen finale, she oversees …
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Ep. 23 Production Supervisor and Accountant Jenny Lovin crunches the numbers for TV & Film! (pt. 1)
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33:40
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33:40Are you great at crunching the numbers and staying on Budget? Dive into the heart of Television magic with TV Production Supervisor and Accountant extraordinaire Jenny Lovin! From the birth of a concept to the dazzling on-screen finale, she oversees it all – budget, production process, and employment intricacies. With a keen eye for financial fines…
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Ep. 22 Cinematic Brilliance: NYC Cinematographer Chris Wairegi from Cameras to Activism! (pt. 2)
27:14
27:14
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27:14We are back discussing more life lessons with award-winning NYC Cinematographer Chris Wairegi in this part 2 interview. From high-def TV and Film Camera work to activism, her diverse portfolio includes TV hits like "Run the World" and groundbreaking projects. As a Legacy Leader and Kodak Howard Bingham Scholar, Chris is a proud member of IATSE Loca…
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Ep. 21 Cinematic Brilliance: NYC Cinematographer Chris Wairegi from Cameras to Activism! (pt. 1)
33:01
33:01
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33:01Explore the cinematic journey of award-winning NYC Cinematographer Chris Wairegi on our podcast. From high-def TV and Film cameras to activism, her diverse portfolio includes TV hits like "Run the World" and groundbreaking projects. As a Legacy Leader and Kodak Howard Bingham Scholar, Chris is a proud member of IATSE Local 600, ICFC, BGDM, DCA, and…
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Ep. 20 Jenna Frank: Producer, Actress and Writer discusses upcoming projects! (pt. 2)
1:01:13
1:01:13
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1:01:13Part 2 with Segment Producer Jenna Frank, a versatile talent making waves in the entertainment industry. During the awards season you will find her at the #Oscars, #Emmys, #Golden Globes and more helping as a Producer behind the scenes. Also known for her roles as a Writer and Actress, Jenna has an impressive list of credits, including executive pr…
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Ep. 19 The Multi-Talented Jenna Frank: Producer, Actress and Writer joins us on the show! (pt. 1)
35:52
35:52
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35:52In this #Podcast episode, we're thrilled to have Jenna Frank, a versatile talent making waves in the entertainment industry. During the awards season you will find her at the #Oscars, #Emmys, #Golden Globes and more helping as a Producer behind the scenes. Also known for her roles as a Writer and Actress, Jenna has an impressive list of credits, in…
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Ep. 18 Behind the Scenes with Actors from "One Night Stay" on BET+
1:00:05
1:00:05
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1:00:05Tune in to this very special episode with some exciting guests on "Vonti Talks with Filmmakers" podcast. Iconic talent - Stephen Bishop, Essence Atkins and Robert Riley join us to inspire future #filmmakers to go after their dreams. They star in the exciting thriller: One Night Stay about a married man and an obsessive young woman who end up in a d…
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Ep. 17 Godzilla vs King Kong Production Designer Tom Hammock joins us to talk Design. 1 hr. Special!
55:50
55:50
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55:50How do you plan the Logistics for mounting a Car on the side of a mountain based on the Screenplay? That's where Tom Hammock comes in as a Production Designer! He gives all the details on his Cinematic Journey from Wilderness Adventures to Hollywood Design Mastery! He shares his unique background growing up in Northern California, studying venoms, …
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Ep. 16 More Insight from Award-Winning Creative Chandler Kauffman (pt. 2)
28:36
28:36
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28:36Ever wanted to know how you get into the big leagues of content development? Welcome back to the second part of our podcast discussion, where we continue to unlock the world of comedy and creativity with the incredible Chandler Kauffman. As an award-winning Director, Producer, and DP, Chandler has carved a remarkable journey from NYU's Tisch School…
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Ep. 15 Award-Winning Director, Producer, and DP Chandler Kauffman (pt. 1)
37:51
37:51
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37:51Unlock the World of Comedy and Creativity with Chandler Kauffman: Award-Winning Director, Producer, and DP! Explore his journey from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts to #Cannes Lions recognition. Discover his work with @ABCNews @NBC @ProcterGamble and more! https://chandlerkauffman.com Dive into the hilarity and humanity he brings to TV shows, featur…
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Episode 14 Cinematic Insights: DP Seamus Tierney Unveils the Visual Magic Behind Hit Shows and Films! (pt. 2)
29:06
29:06
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29:06We continue our discussion on how TV and Film projects visually scoped out based on the screenplay. Director of Photography and Cinematographer Seamus Tierney breaks it down for us. He is known for his work on The Mill (Hulu) Emily in Paris (Netflix), The Mighty Ducks Game Changer (Disney)and many more projects (Seamus Tierney - IMDb) Seamus was ni…
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Ep. 13 Cinematic Insights: DP Seamus Tierney Unveils the Visual Magic Behind Hit Shows and Films! (pt. 1)
35:16
35:16
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35:16How are TV and Film projects visually scoped out based on the screenplay? Director of Photography and Cinematographer Seamus Tierney breaks it down for us. He is known for his work on The Mill (Hulu) Emily in Paris (Netflix), The Mighty Ducks Game Changer (Disney)and many more projects (Seamus Tierney - IMDb) Seamus was nice enough to join us on "V…
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Ep. 12 Revealing Hollywood TV/Film Hiring Trends with a Master Talent Sourcer (pt. 2))
31:59
31:59
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31:59Jay Garcia has spent many years discovering Talent and getting you hired for Major TV and Film Studios. Including places like Paramount, ViacomCBS, Disney, Warner Media, Sony Pictures and many more. He shares his story of how to excel in end-to-end recruiting and talent sourcing; specializing in high-volume and executive roles. Jay is a skilled lea…
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Ep. 11 Revealing Hollywood TV/Film Hiring Trends with a Master Talent Sourcer (pt. 1)
34:54
34:54
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34:54Jay Garcia has spent many years discovering Talent and getting you hired for Major TV and Film Studios. Including places like Paramount, ViacomCBS, Disney, Warner Media, Sony Pictures and many more. He shares his story of how to excel in end-to-end recruiting and talent sourcing; specializing in high-volume and executive roles. Jay is a skilled lea…
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Ep. 10 Talks Filmmaking in Latin Culture with Alberto Ferreras: B is for Beauty & Habla (pt 2 of 2)
34:04
34:04
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34:04Episode 10 continues our discussion with Alberto Ferreras. A New York-based #journalist, #author and #filmmaker, known for media projects that explore and explain the #diversity and complexity of the US Latino experience. In 2021 he created "Somos" the first commissioned piece of the National American #latino Museum, for the Molina Family Gallery a…
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Ep. 9 Talking Beauty and Latin Culture with Alberto Ferreras: B is for Beauty & Habla (Part 1/2)
32:34
32:34
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32:34Alberto Ferreras is a New York-based #journalist, #author and #filmmaker, known for media projects that explore and explain the #diversity and complexity of the US Latino experience. In 2021 he created "Somos" the first commissioned piece of the National American #latino Museum, for the Molina Family Gallery at the National Museum of American #hist…
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Ep. 8 Producer Doug Shaffer wants your Faith based script (Part 2 of 2)
29:31
29:31
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29:31Screenwriter and Producer Doug Shaffer is always on the lookout for great faith based and family scripts. He recently produced the Sony film, "5000 BLANKETS" that is based on a true story. Doug is a P.G.A. member who has done feature films, television movies, commercials, branded content, EPKs and industrial videos. Check out his work: Douglas Shaf…
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Ep. 7 Producer Doug Shaffer runs large Hollywood Film Productions (Part 1 of 2)
31:28
31:28
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31:28Screenwriter and Producer Doug Shaffer is always on the lookout for great faith based and family scripts. He recently produced the Sony film, "5000 BLANKETS" that is based on a true story. Doug is a P.G.A. member who has done feature films, television movies, commercials, branded content, EPKs and industrial videos. Check out his work: Douglas Shaf…
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Ep. 6 continues our discussion with Naeema J. Torres (Part 2 of 2)
27:32
27:32
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27:32Naeema J. Torres (she/her) is an award-winning, Chicago-area filmmaker originally from New York City. She breaks down what it takes to become an Impact Producer. Her prior work for companies such as Cinverse and HBO plus passion for non-fiction storytelling, marketing, sales, and distribution strategy led her to producing. Visit our Youtube channel…
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Ep. 5 Naeema J. Torres breaks down what an Impact Producer does! (Part 1 of 2)
34:47
34:47
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34:47Naeema J. Torres (she/her) is an award-winning, Chicago-area filmmaker originally from New York City. She breaks down what it takes to become an Impact Producer. Her prior work for companies such as Cinverse and HBO plus passion for non-fiction storytelling, marketing, sales, and distribution strategy led her to producing. Visit our Youtube channel…
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Ep. 4 Netflix's Rich Leist on Finding the Next 'Squid Game: The Challenge' Star
26:45
26:45
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26:45The final chapter of a 2-part discussion on the upcoming "Squid Game: The Challenge" competition. Including how his Casting department helped to find 456 players fighting to win the largest prize in game show HISTORY of $4.56 million dollars!! He gives insight on how he's remained in the Casting game for over 20 years! Plus offering inspiration on …
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Ep. 3 Netflix's Rich Leist on Finding the Next 'Squid Game: The Challenge' Star
37:00
37:00
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37:00We discuss the upcoming "Squid Game: The Challenge" competition. Including how his Casting department helped to find 456 players fighting to win the largest prize in game show HISTORY of $4.56 million dollars!! He gives insight on how he's remained in the Casting game for over 20 years! Plus offering inspiration on those wanting to be a part of the…
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Ep. 2 Unwrapping the Magic: Dave Bossert brought 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' to Life at Disney
1:09:17
1:09:17
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1:09:17Special 1 hour episode to close our final episode with Dave Bossert. His Book "Nightmare Before Christmas: Visual Companion" has launched on 9/26/203. We continue our discussion of his 30+ year career at Disney working on animated projects like Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Lion King, Pocahontas & many more. Details to purchase…
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Unwrapping the Magic: Dave Bossert's Journey to Bringing 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' to Life at Disney
28:29
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28:29Dave Bossert discusses his upcoming Book "Nightmare Before Christmas: Visual Companion". Plus his prior 30+ year career at Disney working on animated projects like Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Lion King, Pocahontas & many more. Details to purchase his book can be found at www.davidbossert.com Stay updated with our podcast sche…
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Get ready for our Guests! Mega Trailer for Podcast
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2:59Snapshot of Guests: Mike Spiller - Exec. Producer/Director The Mindy Project Alberto Ferreras - HBO Habla Docu Series Doug Shaffer - Sony 5000 Blankets Rich Leist - Netflix Director of Unscripted Casting Dave Bossert - Former Disney VFX Supervisor Jay Garcia - Paramount Talent Recruiter Kate Phelan - Cinematographer Naeema Torres - Impact Producer …
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